Dallas — NC State’s Carlos Rodon represents the only freshman in the country named a Dick Howser Trophy Semifinalist, announced Friday by the NCBWA.

The Dick Howser Trophy is given annually to the top college baseball player in the nation after two rounds of national voting, and is presented by Easton Foundations. More NCSU Stories

Rodon made the cut as the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association trimmed its list of candidates to 35 names. The ACC has three players among the semifinalists.

The Holly Springs, N.C. native continues to build his case as the top freshman in the NCAA with the semifinalist mention. Rodon also represents the only freshman remaining in contention for the Golden Spikes Award.

The Dick Howser Trophy, given in memory of the former Florida State University All-America shortstop and major league player and manager, who died of brain cancer in 1987, is regarded by many as college baseball's most prestigious award. Criteria for consideration of the trophy include performance on the field, leadership, moral character and courage, qualities that were exemplified by Dick Howser's life. The award is in its 26th year of existence.